A variety of animals are looking for a caring foster home this Christmas season.

The SPCA is asking Kiwis to foster animals so they can be in a home environment over the holiday break, as the organisation’s limits are stretched.

There are lots of animals which need temporary homes at the SPCA centres nearest to Wanaka (in Queenstown, Oamaru, Dunedin and Invercargill).

They include kittens, cats, ducks, chickens, puppies and dogs.

There was no information provided about Alexandra SPCA, which operates in partnership with Alexandra Vetlife. 

Fostering with SPCA - the country’s oldest and largest animal welfare charity - involves caring for an animal from two to six weeks and comes at no cost to the foster family.

SPCA CEO Andrea Midgen says SPCA foster families are special people.

“I’m always blown away by the support of our foster volunteers who open their homes and hearts to animals in need,” Andrea said.

The SPCA supplies all food, medicine, bedding, and toys to make the animal comfortable while with their foster family.  

Because some fosters’ circumstances have changed, they have lost a few fosters recently.

On the topic of Christmas, an SPCA spokesperson says people also looking to receive or gift a pet at Christmas should think very carefully.

“If families are looking to adopt, matching the right home for an animal is essential,” the spokesperson says. 

“A person's lifestyle, property, and experience with animals are all important factors that are considered before an adoption is approved.  

“Our animal teams and volunteers work hard to ensure that every animal finds the best forever home for them.  

“Adopting a new family member is a big decision, as it is a commitment to care for that animal for the rest of their life. 

“Pets should always be a considered, family-wide and educated decision. 

“SPCA only adopts animals to owners following checks that they have the time and resources to look after pets properly.”

Interested in fostering an animal? 


Visit the SPCA website’s foster section for up-to-date information on foster animals nearest to you.

PHOTO: SPCA